Know Your Income Tax in Australia - Current Tax Breaks
To offset the impact of the introduction of GST (Goods and Service Tax) in 2000, the Commonwealth has assisted those who buy or build their first homes through the State and Territories by offering a one-off payment of $7,000 FHOG (First Home Owner Grant). There have been additional payments of $7,000 or $3,000 for building contracts signed before Jun 2002 and completed by Jun 2004. If you have missed out in the early years and you are buying or building your first home now, you can still be eligible for the $7,000 FHOG. The grant is not taxable. The applicant is not subject to any means test, other than to meet a few criteria on resident status, ownership and occupancy.